The trend toward using outdoor structures in garden design follows the pattern of making the outdoor space functional and aesthetically pleasing. Just like homeowners are enhancing the inside of their homes to fit their needs, many are looking to get the most out of their backyards, too. A timber pergola can be built in many different landscape design styles. You might find one in a cottage garden providing shade and shelter or standing alone in a modern garden.
Traditional, Modern, Cottage, Mediterranean, Coastal. It's just a list of pergola styles, right?
Nope. It's a list of garden design styles. But no matter what your favourite landscape happens to be, there is likely a pergola design that will mesh with your style. After all, "A pergola's just a bunch of boards in an A-frame," you say? Right. But there's more to choosing a timber treatments and finishes than whether to allow your furniture or pergola to turn a soothing, silver colour.
Popular Pergola Styles
Classic designs are known for their timeless elegance and attention to detail. They usually come with ornate embellishments, rich textures, and a balanced sense of symmetry—giving a nod to a traditionally-styled take on design. Outdoor spaces can be made more functional and better looking simply by including a pergola in the design. If it's an outdoor dining space you want, a pergola will be very inviting. It will give you some shade and a sense of enclosure, and will still allow the air to flow around you. Just set your dining table and chairs in a comfortable arrangement, and you'll have the perfect spot to be with your loved ones, or to host your next gathering.
Construction and Materials
If you decide to build a pergola, you can use several types of wood, all of which have their characteristics:
- Pressure-treated pine is a common theme amongst pergolas, this is one of the less expensive upfront options, but it will require more maintenance as time goes on.
- If you have a bit more of a budget, you might want to use a hardwood that will last a long time.
Enhancing Your Pergola Experience
Give your pergola some style—and create a cozy year-round outdoor nook—by stringing up lights, putting down a rug, and throwing in a mix of comfy chairs and throw pillows. And of course, you'll want reading material and drinks, so don't forget a coffee table and magazine rack. Most importantly, you'll want to include balance, so be sure to incorporate the "Rule of Five."
Timber pergolas can be designed in different styles to achieve various looks and serve different purposes. You can get a traditional design with lots of lattice work up top if you want a climbing plant to take it over and create a cozy spot in your backyard. Or you can opt for a much simpler design with clean lines that provide a bare, shady spot outdoors. Either way, a pergola will likely enhance your backyard's appearance.